SafePlants

Common Water-Plantain (Alisma plantago-aquatica)

The Common Water-Plantain is an attractive wetland plant known for its delicate white, pale pink, or lilac flowers. These flowers exhibit a unique behavior, opening in the late afternoon and closing again at dusk.

Considerations for Pets

• The plant produces edible tubers.

Considerations for Children

• The plant produces edible tubers.

Quirky Facts

• In Irish tradition, the plant is known as "Copg Phdraig" (&quotleaf of Patrick&quot) and is reputed to ward off fairies.
• The flowers open in the late afternoon and close again at dusk.

Nomenclature and Taxonomy

• Scientific Name: Alisma plantago-aquatica
• Common Names: Common Water-Plantain, European Water Plantain, Great Water Plantain, Mad-dog Weed.
• Family: Alismataceae
• Synonyms: Alisma subcordatum, Alisma triviale, Alisma orientalis, Alisma lanceolatum

Distribution and Habitat

• Widespread.
• Commonly found in shallow water or along the muddy banks of slow-moving watercourses.
• Grows in water, swamps, on muddy banks, or occasionally in wet sand.

Morphological Characteristics

• Perennial plant.
• Tall, reaching up to 1 meter.
• Leaves are long-stalked, broad lanceolate, and rounded at the base.
• Flowers are small, pale lilac or white, with three petals.
• Basal leaves can reach up to 7 inches long and 4 inches across (excluding the long petioles).
• Forms a rosette of basal leaves about 1 foot tall.

Additional Information

• It is unrelated to true plantains (Plantago species).
• Remove the seed heads to avoid prolific self-seeding.

Further Resources

• ARKive
• WebMD
• RHS
• Chester Zoo's Mackays Horsetail and Floating Water Plantain Conservation Programme